During the 2026 World Cup clash between South Korea and the Czech Republic, Mexican engineer Ulises Fernando Bernal Miramontes was filmed pulling the corners of his eyes in a gesture that many viewers interpreted as a racist slant‑eyes pose towards East Asians.
The clip—initially posted by South Korean content creator Yoon Su‑jin under the handle Ino Cat—went viral, drawing over 65,000 comments on Instagram and more than 120,000 reposts, with viewers condemning the behaviour and urging accountability.
Following the backlash, Bernal’s role as president of the College of Geomatics and Topographic Surveying Engineers of Jalisco (CITGEJ) was terminated, citing the inappropriate conduct demonstrated in the footage.
In a written apology released Sunday, Bernal acknowledged that the video had “circulated widely and generated a wide range of reactions.” He stated: “I sincerely regret all that has been caused. I have reflected on my actions and understand the responsibility I hold.”
He added, “Throughout my personal and professional life, I have always tried to treat others with respect, and I will continue working to ensure my actions consistently reflect those values.”
The incident highlights how an individual’s actions can spark international dialogue on cultural sensitivity, especially during globally watched sporting events, and underscores the importance of swift accountability from figures in positions of influence.
